Once the capital of British India, Kolkata retains its colonial grandeur through its iconic buildings like the Victoria Memorial and Writers’ Building. It’s home to India’s oldest metro system, Asia’s first football club, and the famous Howrah Bridge. The city celebrates Durga Puja with unmatched fervor, and its people are known for their passion for literature, sweets, and football.

1. Language: Bengali is widely spoken, but English and Hindi are easily understood.
2. Weather: Summers can be hot and humid; carry light cotton clothes.
3. Transport: Use the Metro and app-based taxis for convenience.
4. Safety: The city is generally safe, but stay alert in crowded markets.
5. Local Etiquette: Respect religious customs and always remove shoes before entering temples.

1. Location: Eastern India, along the Hooghly River
2. Population: Over 4.5 million within city limits
3. Famous For: Durga Puja, sweets, colonial heritage, and literature
4. Connectivity: Well-connected by air, rail, and road
5. Nickname: City of Joy

1. To witness the grandeur of Durga Puja celebrations.
2. To explore architectural marvels like Marble Palace and Victoria Memorial.
3. To experience Kolkata’s vibrant street food scene.
4. To walk through the intellectual heart of India at College Street.
5. To feel the warmth of locals and the charm of old-world lanes.

The ideal time to visit Kolkata is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and the festive atmosphere is in full swing. Durga Puja, held around September–October, is the highlight of the year and showcases the city at its most beautiful.

1. Visit Howrah Bridge and take a ferry ride on the Hooghly River.
2. Stroll through Park Street, the heart of nightlife and colonial cafés.
3. Explore Indian Museum, one of the oldest museums in Asia.
4. Attend a live theater performance or an art exhibition.
5. Relax in Eco Park or take a heritage tram ride through the city.

Kolkata offers a unique shopping experience, from local markets to upscale malls. New Market and Gariahat are famous for traditional saris, handicrafts, and accessories, while College Street is a paradise for book lovers. You can also find fine Bengali textiles, terracotta jewelry, and handmade souvenirs reflecting the city’s artistic spirit.

Dos

1. Do try local Bengali sweets like rasgulla and sandesh.
2. Do travel by tram for a nostalgic experience.
3. Do carry cash for smaller shops and street vendors.

Don’ts

1. Don’t litter; keep the city clean.
2. Don’t bargain aggressively in markets.
3. Don’t photograph people without permission, especially at religious sites.

1. Sundarbans: A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its mangrove forests and Bengal tigers.
2. Shantiniketan: Tagore’s land of art and learning, rich in culture and serenity.
3. Digha: A popular seaside town perfect for a weekend escape.
4. Mandarmani: A quiet coastal retreat known for adventure activities.
5. Bishnupur: Famous for terracotta temples and Baluchari sarees.

Kolkata is a paradise for food lovers. Must-try dishes include kosha mangsho (spicy mutton curry), puchkas (pani puri), kathi rolls, and mishit doi (sweet yogurt). The city’s sweet shops, particularly those serving rosogolla and sandesh, are culinary landmarks in themselves.

Art and culture thrive in every corner of Kolkata. The city is the birthplace of Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore and home to vibrant art galleries, theaters, and music festivals. From the Academy of Fine Arts to Nandan, creativity flows endlessly here. Kolkata’s cultural calendar is filled with literary meets, film festivals, and traditional dance performances that celebrate both heritage and innovation.